Presentations

Research Poster Presentations

The following students presented their research posters at the University of Victoria conference PSOVIPS: Psychology Students of Vancouver Island Poster Session

Courtenay Crucil & Jean King

Adolescent Mothers II: An Investigation of the Experiences of Adolescent Mothers in Nanaimo BC (2011) Click here for the poster

Amy Moyer

An Investigation of the Experiences of Adults Living with Celiac Disease (2011) Click here for the poster

Colleen Stinson

A Needs Assessment of Perinatal Programs for Adolescent Mothers in the City of Nanaimo, BC (2009) Click here for the poster

Canadian Psychological Association Presentation

In the summer of 2008, we presented preliminary data from our research to the Canadian Psychological Association. The research was conducted as part of the International Resilience Project. The purpose was to discover the status of youth faced with adversity in Nanaimo. The methods included the Pathways to Resilience Youth Measure (PRYM) questionnaire and qualitative interviews.

The findings indicated that youth faced challenges such as peer difficulties, substance abuse, and violence. In terms of coping strategies, youth tended to withdraw from the adverse situation and turn to family for problem-solving assistance. When the topic of transitioning to adulthood was mentioned, youth did not recognize rites of passage, and generally did not see impending responsibilities as part of entering adulthood.

Youth who demonstrated resilience appeared to possess goal setting, problem solving skills, and a sense of self awareness. Adults mentioned these characteristics as being important factors when youth develop and grow up. A risk factor can occur when adults are not involved with youth, or when the adult has issues with stress or substance abuse.

Nanaimo offers many professional resources for youth, yet some feel they are unnoticed and uncared for by the community. Many youth are not aware of the programs and services available to them.

This presentation of initial data was based on a small sample size of 24 youth. Data collection has continued into the Spring of 2009 and the analysis of the data is currently ongoing.